MATTHEW SCOTT SMOLEN

Matthew Scott Smolen, age 53, passed away peacefully in his home in Ely on January 19, 2022. 

Matt was born on December 27, 1969, in Gary, Indiana, to Thomas and Mary Frances Smolen. He graduated from Highland Sr. High School in 1987 and continued his education at Purdue University and Vermilion Community College. Matt enjoyed going to Fortune Bay, playing Texas hold ‘em, having the companionship of his many dogs through the years, watching football and baseball (Go, Cubs!), and attending his nieces’ and nephews’ sporting events. 

Matt is survived by his mother, Mary Frances, of Indian Land, SC; brother Tim (Stephanie) Smolen of Olympia, WA; sister Megan (Todd) Heiman, of Ely; sister Marci (Tim) Dobos of Charlotte, NC; nieces Kelly Dobos and Katie Dobos; nephews Michael (Allison) Heiman, Patrick (Haley) Heiman, Mark Heiman, Joshua Heiman, Jimmy Smolen, Kevin Dobos, and Kyle Dobos; many friends, and many caregivers who worked hard to help him live independently and with dignity as he struggled with MS.

He is preceded in death by his father, Thomas; brother, Joe; and niece, Emily Smolen.  

No formal services will be held at this time. The family is planning a celebration of life to take place this summer. 

Family arrangements have been entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home of Ely.

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